
No formalin in fish samples since 2019: Rane
All samples of fish tested at check posts and at the wholesale fish market in Margao since 2019 tested negative for formalin, health minister Vishwajit Rane said.
Since 2019, as many as 33,805 samples of fish at Polem, 33,989 samples at Patradevi, and 1.3 lakh samples at the Margao wholesale fish market tested negative for formalin, he said.
The directorate of food and drugs administration (FDA) has also been conducting regular tests of fish samples through its advanced laboratory as well as through third-party laboratories accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), the minister said.
'From March to June this year, samples from both North and South Goa were tested. None contained added formaldehyde,' Rane said.
Since 2019, state govt has partnered with the Quality Council of India to conduct 24x7 fish quality checks at Polem, Patradevi, and the Margao wholesale fish market, Rane said and added that safe and healthy food remains the FDA's top priority.
Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with
Doctor's Day 2025
,
messages
and quotes!
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Listeria risk outbreak: FDA elevates recall of 400 boxes of organic blueberries
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated the recent recall of organic blueberries to the most severe classification – Class I. Originating from Alma Pak International LLC, based in Georgia, the voluntary recall on June 9 involved 400 boxes (each weighing 30 pounds) of organic blueberries after routine testing detected Listeria monocytogenes. These contaminated boxes, bearing lot numbers 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096, were distributed to a single customer in North Carolina. The recall in detail: What you need to know On June 9, 2025, Alma Pak International LLC initiated a voluntary recall involving 400 boxes (30 lbs each) of their organic blueberries after routine testing revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. Although shipments were sent to just one North Carolina customer, the FDA's recent classification upgrade on July 1, 2025, to a Class I recall reflects the seriousness of the contamination, a category reserved for food products that could result in death or serious illness Identifying the affected product Company: Alma Pak International LLC (Georgia) Recall Date: June 9, 2025 Boxes Recalled: 400 Weight per Box: 30 lbs Lot Numbers: 13325 G1060, 13325 G1096 Distribution: One customer in North Carolina Consumers and vendors are urged to inspect their inventories and immediately dispose of any blueberries matching these details. What is a Listeria outbreak ? A listeria outbreak is a situation where two or more people get sick from eating food contaminated with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. This can happen when food is processed, prepared, or stored in unsanitary conditions. Listeria outbreaks are typically identified when multiple individuals experience similar illnesses after consuming the same potentially contaminated food. Why is Listeria such a concern? Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogenic bacterium that thrives in refrigerated environments, unlike many other foodborne pathogens. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo While healthy individuals might experience mild symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, nausea, or diarrhea, the infection can escalate to more severe conditions, such as meningitis, particularly in those over 65, pregnant individuals, newborns, or the immunocompromised. According to FDA data, listeriosis is the third-leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the US, responsible for approximately 260 deaths annually. Listeriosis: Symptoms and prevention Listeria can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Listeriosis symptoms can range from mild, like fever and diarrhea, to severe, including meningitis or sepsis, especially in vulnerable populations. Listeria can be transmitted through contaminated food, and outbreaks are often linked to ready-to-eat foods like deli meats, soft cheeses, and smoked seafood. Proper food handling, including cooking to safe temperatures and avoiding high-risk foods, is crucial to prevent listeriosis.


Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
FDA issues highest-level recall for Alma Pak organic blueberries over Listeria contamination
The FDA has issued a Class I recall for Alma Pak International LLC's organic blueberries after Listeria monocytogenes was detected. This recall affects 400 boxes distributed to North Carolina. Listeria infection poses a severe risk, especially to vulnerable populations, potentially leading to serious illness or death. Consumers are urged to check lot numbers and seek medical attention if symptoms arise. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads What's affected? Product: Organic blueberries from Alma Pak International LLC (Georgia-based) Quantity: 400 boxes, each weighing 30 pounds (totaling 12,000 pounds) Lot Numbers: 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096 Distribution: Shipped to a single customer in North Carolina Why the urgency? Check their blueberries for the affected lot numbers Avoid consuming any recalled product Contact the retailer for a refund Seek medical attention if symptoms of listeriosis develop after consumption Company response and background Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class I recall—the highest possible risk level—for 400 boxes of organic blueberries distributed by Alma Pak International LLC, following the detection of Listeria monocytogenes during routine testing. The recall, first initiated on June 9, 2025, was elevated to Class I status on July 1, signaling a 'reasonable probability' that consuming the affected product could lead to serious health consequences or even death, according to the FDA's official monocytogenes is a dangerous bacteria that can contaminate various foods. Infection, known as listeriosis, is particularly hazardous for newborns, adults over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms range from fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in milder cases, to severe complications such as headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, loss of coordination, and seizures in more vulnerable individuals. Listeria infection is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the U.S., causing around 260 deaths are urged to:The FDA's Class I recall status underscores the seriousness of this contamination, as the agency warns that exposure to the tainted blueberries could result in life-threatening Pak International LLC has voluntarily recalled the product and is cooperating with authorities. Notably, this is not the company's first recall—previous incidents have included recalls for other frozen berry products due to contamination recall comes amid a broader trend of increased food recalls in 2024 and 2025, with a notable rise in hospitalizations and deaths linked to foodborne you have purchased Alma Pak organic blueberries, check your packaging immediately and follow FDA guidance to ensure your safety.


Hindustan Times
10 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Wegmans recalls popular chocolate over undeclared allergen in these states: ‘Life-threatening'
Wegmans has recalled a popular chocolate candy due to a serious labeling error. The product reportedly contains milk, but the packaging does not mention it, which could be a major concern for people with milk allergies. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed the issue in a public notice, as per a USA Today report. Popular chocolate recalled in nine states due to undisclosed allergen, 'life-threatening' warning issued(Representational Image) The recalled candy, Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils, was manufactured by Mellace Family Brands California, Inc., based in Warren, Ohio. According to the FDA, the problem came to light when milk was detected in the product but not declared on the packaging. Officials linked the issue to a temporary lapse in the supplier's manufacturing process. 'People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products,' the FDA warned in a public advisory. Also read: Fourth of July events: Where to watch fireworks in Ohio, Wisconsin and Minnesota Wegmans chocolate recall: Where was the product sold? The company's Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils were sold in clear plastic tubs at Wegmans stores in several states, including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Virginia, and North Carolina. They were also available in Washington, D.C. No illnesses have been reported so far. However, the FDA is advising customers to check their tubs and avoid eating any product from the recalled batches. How to identify the affected product? To see if your product is part of the recall, look for the codes given below: UPC: 0 77890 49787 6 SCC: 10077890497873 The recall applies to these lot numbers and best by dates: 55021 – Dec 28, 2025 55031 – Dec 29, 2025 55491 – Feb 13, 2026 55501 – Feb 14, 2026 56061 – Apr 11, 2026 56071 – Apr 12, 2026 Wegmans has asked customers to stop using the product. Anyone who bought one of these tubs can return it to the store for a full refund. The issue was reported to the FDA by the manufacturer on June 25. Wegmans has now posted recall notices in stores and online. The company is also sharing updates through its customer service channels. The FDA says it will keep monitoring the situation. Allergy groups are also urging shoppers to check product labels carefully - even on brands they trust. FAQs: Q1. What is being recalled at Wegmans? Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils (18.5 oz tubs) are being recalled due to undeclared milk. Q2. Which states are affected by the recall? The product was sold in eight states and Washington, D.C., including New York, New Jersey, and Virginia. Q3. Has anyone reported an illness? No illnesses related to the product have been reported so far. Q4. What should I do with the recalled product? Customers should return the item to Wegmans for a full refund and avoid consuming it.